Human leukocyte antigen A mRNA (HLA-A mRNA)

Human leukocyte antigen A (HLA-A) mRNA is the transcript of the HLA-A gene, which encodes the alpha chain of the MHC class I molecule [1]. This molecule is vital for the immune system, as it presents endogenous peptides to CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, enabling the detection of infected or malignant cells [2]. In oncology, the downregulation of HLA-A mRNA is a frequent mechanism of immune evasion, leading to reduced tumor visibility to the immune system [3]. Conversely, in transplantation and regenerative medicine, HLA-A mRNA is a target for silencing via RNA interference (RNAi) to create "universal" donor cells that avoid host immune rejection [4]. Therapeutic strategies involving HLA-A mRNA include mRNA-based vaccines that leverage the host's translational machinery to produce specific antigens for presentation [5]. Additionally, antisense oligonucleotides and siRNA are being explored to modulate HLA expression in various pathological contexts [6]. Monitoring HLA-A mRNA levels and specific genotypes is crucial for patient stratification in immunotherapy and for assessing the risk of graft-versus-host disease [7]. The regulation of this mRNA is also a key factor in the response to interferon-based therapies, which can upregulate HLA expression to enhance immune surveillance [8].

Other names

MHC class I antigen A mRNAMajor histocompatibility complex, class I, A mRNAHLA-A transcriptHLA class I antigen A alpha chain mRNA

Translation into functional MHC class I molecules for peptide presentation; RNA interference (RNAi) for gene silencing; Antisense-mediated mRNA degradation.